HSE to target on-site manual handling
28 September 2022
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors will carry out 1,000 construction site visits in October and November to check how workers are moving heavy or bulky materials.
Recent figures show that around 40,000 people in the construction industry suffer musculoskeletal disorders each year, including injuries to muscles, bones, joints and nerves.
The HSE says that moving and handling risks should be considered and prevented where possible at the design stage. Once on site and before work starts, employers should talk to workers about controlling existing risks to make sure that the right training, aids and equipment are there to prevent injuries.
HSE’s head of construction, Sarah Jardine said: “We want everyone in the industry, from designers to contractors and their workers, to be aware of the risks associated with any moving or lifting task and put appropriate measures in place.”
HSE has a MAC tool (manual handling assessment charts) which can found on the organisation’s website.
Photo: a beam lifter from The Hire Supply Company.
